Jordan Díaz, a Cuban-born athlete now representing Spain, stunned the athletics world on Tuesday by setting a remarkable mark of 18.18 meters. This achievement earned him the gold medal and set new national and continental records in the men's triple jump at the European Championships held in Rome, Italy.
Díaz, who was born in Havana 23 years ago, recorded the best jump of the season, the third-best of all time, and fell just 11 centimeters short of the world record held by Britain's Jonathan Edwards. The historical ranking now stands as follows: Edwards (18.29m), American Christian Taylor (18.21m), and Díaz, who in his debut representing Spain, has solidified his position as the top favorite for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The competition also featured other notable performances: fellow Cuban Pedro Pablo Pichardo, the Olympic and world champion representing Portugal, achieved a jump of 18.04 meters to earn the silver medal. At 30 years old, Pichardo continues to excel in his sport.
Both Cuban athletes displayed excellent form during the qualification rounds, even exchanging indirect remarks in interviews conducted in the mixed zone. The bronze medal went to France's Thomas Gogois with a jump of 17.38 meters, although the cameras frequently focused on the standout athletes from Cuba's renowned triple jump school.
With less than two months to go until the start of the 2024 Paris Olympics, the stage is set for Díaz's debut under the Olympic rings. He is currently coached by fellow Cuban Iván Pedroso, a living legend in the long jump. Pedroso, the 2000 Sydney Olympic champion and multiple-time world indoor and outdoor champion, is one of the most successful coaches in athletics. He also trains Venezuelan star Yulimar Rojas, Spain's Ana Peleteiro—who won the women's triple jump in Rome—and his compatriot Juan Miguel Echevarría.
The European track and field celebration, held from June 7 to 12, was missing another notable Cuban athlete who excels in the men's triple jump and represents Italy: Andy Díaz, who is among the leaders in the global rankings.
FAQs on Jordan Díaz's Record-Breaking Performance
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers regarding Jordan Díaz's impressive achievements at the European Athletics Championship.
Who held the previous world record in the men's triple jump?
The previous world record in the men's triple jump is held by Britain's Jonathan Edwards, with a mark of 18.29 meters.
What is Jordan Díaz's personal best in the triple jump?
Jordan Díaz's personal best in the triple jump is 18.18 meters, which he achieved at the European Championships in Rome, Italy.
Who are some other notable athletes trained by Iván Pedroso?
Iván Pedroso also trains Venezuelan star Yulimar Rojas, Spain's Ana Peleteiro, and his compatriot Juan Miguel Echevarría.